Oxford after dark
Best cocktails in Oxford:
five spots for your next night out.
From The Lighthouse's long cocktail list to Raoul’s in Jericho, choose an Oxford bar to suit your evening — with direct links to every listing and Instagram profile.
The Lighthouse is the place to start if you want plenty of choice: its own drinks page describes a long list of house creations and classics, with tapas if you want to stay for food. For a more drinks-led evening, head to independent Raoul’s on Walton Street in Jericho. The other three picks give you rooftop theatre, a celebratory setting or an easy central meeting point.
These are five different ways to do cocktails in Oxford, selected from our business directory. Choose the bar that suits your group, then use its listing for the address and its Instagram for the latest feel of the place.
Menus, opening times and offers change. Check the venue directly before making a special trip, especially if you need a table, a particular drink or an alcohol-free option.
Where to drink
Pick your bar
by the kind of night you want.
For plenty of choice · Park End Street
The Lighthouse
A pub by tradition and a cocktail bar in its own right, The Lighthouse mixes house creations with classics, gin and other spirits. Its Park End Street location near the station makes it a natural first or final stop; the tapas menu means a round can turn into a whole evening.The Lighthouse listing & directions →The Lighthouse on Instagram
For a dedicated cocktail bar · Jericho
Raoul’s Bar
Raoul’s is the independent Walton Street choice when the drinks are the main event. The bar’s published menu ranges from short, spirit-led serves to longer drinks and twists on familiar classics. It is a good destination for a later night in Jericho, away from the busiest central streets.Raoul’s listing & directions →Raoul’s on Instagram
For a show with your drink · Westgate
The Alchemist Oxford
The Alchemist makes the cocktail itself part of the entertainment, with theatrical presentation and a Westgate rooftop terrace. Pick it for an animated group night or a drink before dinner, especially if your table enjoys bold, playful serves.The Alchemist listing & directions →The Alchemist on Instagram
For a rooftop celebration · Westgate
Victors Oxford
Victors pairs a substantial cocktail menu with its wisteria-covered setting on the Westgate roof. You can visit just for drinks, or make a longer evening of it with dinner. It is a strong choice when you want the setting to feel like an occasion.Victors listing & directions →Victors on Instagram
For an easy central rendezvous · Cornmarket Street
Cosy Club Oxford
Cosy Club is a relaxed place to meet when some of your group want cocktails and others want a meal. Its Cornmarket Street address is easy to find, and the Oxford venue has a bar area, an all-day food menu and a changing drinks list.Cosy Club listing & directions →Cosy Club Oxford on Instagram
Editor’s note
A good cocktail night, without the guesswork
For a drinks-first evening, choose The Lighthouse or Raoul’s. For a larger group or a meal alongside cocktails, The Alchemist, Victors and Cosy Club offer different moods within the city centre. You do not need to treat these five as a crawl; pick one or two and enjoy the time there.
Our picks are based on the venues’ published information and the listings in this guide, rather than anonymous ratings or a firsthand tasting. Confirm current menus, bookings and accessibility with the venue before travelling.
Know before you go
The practical bit.
- Cocktail-focused
- The Lighthouse on Park End Street; Raoul’s on Walton Street in Jericho.
- Westgate roof
- The Alchemist for theatrical drinks; Victors for cocktails in a celebratory setting.
- Central meet-up
- Cosy Club is on Cornmarket Street, with a bar and all-day dining.
Sources & visitor information 6 sources · Checked 25 Sept 2026
Compiled from published visitor information, rather than firsthand venue reviews. Check current hours and booking details before travelling.
Keep planning